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podcast· 1h 01m· Ep 72072: How Research Influences Our Spray Program Decisions with Dr. Katie Gold
In this episode of Vineyard Underground, host Fritz Westover welcomes Dr. Katie Gold, Assistant Professor of Grape Pathology at Cornell University, for a deep dive into how research drives informed spray program decisions in the vineyard. Dr. Gold brings her extensive expertise in grape disease management to the conversation, shedding light on how growers can use scientific data and field research to refine their fungicide strategies and protect their crops more effectively. Fritz and Katie explore the critical role of disease forecasting models, including how they are developed and validated, and why it's important for growers to go beyond the "calendar-based" approach to spraying. Dr. Gold emphasizes the value of using weather-based decision support tools and highlights ongoing research aimed at improving the precision and sustainability of vineyard disease management. Listeners will gain a better understanding of how academic research translates into real-world applications, from id
podcast· 1h 04m· Ep 71071: Demystifying Spray Adjuvants with Paul Crout
In this episode, we are joined by a friend and repeat guest, Paul Crout. Paul is a leading pest control advisor, certified crop control advisor, and one of the foremost experts on wine grape nutrition, spray adjuvants, and more in the ag and viticulture realm. He currently works as a leading agronomist with Helena Agra Enterprises in California, and he has the honor of being the only guest we've had on the podcast three times! Adjuvants can be a dry topic, but we promise this discussion provides a lot of valuable take-home information. It's one of those episodes where you will want to take notes. Listen in and don't forget to download the Spray Adjuvants to Increase Pesticide Efficacy Grower Guide . In this episode, you will hear: What adjuvants are, when to use them, and which ones to use The two main categories of adjuvants - surfactants and special purpose When to use buffers and drift control agents The importance of knowing your water's pH before adding an adjuvant Differences bet
podcast· 29:32· Ep 70070: Alternative Canopy Management Practices
There are three alternative canopy management practices that generate a lot of questions and sometimes confusion from growers. So, in today's solo episode I will cover these three canopy management practices - extreme leaf removal, shoot tipping, and palissage. I'll go over each of these practices and discuss when they should be used to benefit your vineyard and in what instances these practices should be avoided. In this episode, you will hear: The potential outcomes of extreme leaf removal The impact of extreme leaf removal on grapevine physiology and disease prevention Creative applications of shoot tipping or hedging The palissage method as an alternative to traditional shoot hedging New approaches surrounding the palissage method Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click the '+ Follow' button in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts . Simply select
podcast· 56:56· Ep 69069: When Are Insects Actually a Problem with Dr. Rufus Isaacs
Growers need to know which insects they need to treat and which they can ignore. While some insects pose a threat to grapevines, others can actually benefit them. In this episode, we have a discussion with the Distinguished Professor and Berry Crops Entomology Extension Specialist for Michigan State University, Dr. Rufus Isaacs, on this topic. Understanding when and what insects are actually a problem versus those that are hanging out or even providing a benefit is necessary for the health of your vineyard. In this episode, you will hear: The insects that are most destructive during bud burst in the spring The insects that are destructive during bloom Methods and products for prevention and treatment of various pests How to identify thrips The importance of weekly scouting and knowing what to look for Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click the '+ Follow' button in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could d
podcast· 58:20· Ep 68068: The Evolution of Vineyard Floor Management with Alice Wise
In this episode, we are joined by Alice Wise from Cornell University to talk about vineyard floor management and how concepts and best practices for vineyard floor management have evolved in recent years. Alice has been following trends and successes for grape growers in Long Island, New York, and across the Mid-Atlantic in general with her extension and research roles, and we know you are going to love what she has to share with us. Listen in to discover the evolution of vineyard floor management today! In this episode, you will hear: Why growers decided they wanted a change in their management practices. About Alice's sustainability program on the East Coast. The types of mechanical cultivation that were tried and their problems. What a lysimeter is and how it's used. How to do your own cover crop research. Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click the '+ Follow' button in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you
podcast· 48:13· Ep 67067: Growing for Sparkling Wines in Alternative Regions with Mark Wenzel & Kaibab Sauvage
In this episode, we explore the world of sparkling wine production in unconventional regions with Mark Wenzel from Illinois Sparkling Wine Company and August Hill Winery, and Kaibab Sauvage from Sauvage Spectrum Winery in Colorado. These winemakers discuss their process of adapting viticulture to thrive in challenging climates, turning high-acid grapes into naturally sparkling wines without relying on conventional carbonation methods. The episode covers their brands' evolutions, vineyard management techniques, and creative varietal blends. Additionally, Mark and Kaibab share about vineyard management, yield strategies, and future innovations in sparkling wine. Listen in for inspiration and practical advice for grape growers and winemakers interested in expanding into non-traditional locales. In this episode, you will hear: Sparkling wine production in non-traditional regions like Illinois and Colorado. Adapting viticulture for cold climates. The transition from carbonated to naturally
podcast· 41:39· Ep 66066: Q&A – Fritz Answers Early Season Grower Questions
We are back with another one of our favorite types of episodes - a Q&A, where Fritz answers questions from growers like you, from all over the country. In today's episode, we focus on questions pertaining to early season growing. This includes knowing when to prune and how much and knowing what to do about retraining trunks or working around tricky sections in your vineyard. Listen in now as you get ready for the upcoming growing season. In this episode, you will hear: What to do if bud burst comes early How to predict how much water per acre is needed to spray as the canopy size increases What to do when you have one section that is sensitive to sulfur What to do when retraining trunks Is it okay to cut shoots back to the trunk when there is still a chance of a hard freeze Advantages of using a pruning wound sealant and when to use it Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click the '+ Follow' button in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We
podcast· 57:45· Ep 65065: Mechanizing Your Vineyard from the Start with Dr. Matthew Fidelibus & Alan Thibault
Mechanizing a vineyard can lead to significant efficiency gains and cost savings, but it's important to start planning for mechanization early in the vineyard design process. Many new growers overlook this step, which can impact their adaptability for mechanization in the future. In this episode, we have a conversation with Dr. Matthew Fidelibus from UC Davis and Alan Thibault from Ashton Creek Vineyard and Vigneron Toy Store on the best mechanization practices from the start. By considering mechanization from the beginning, vineyard owners can make sure their operations are set up for success and remain competitive in the ever-evolving wine industry. In this episode, you will hear: How to start with mechanization from the beginning Why you should start planning for mechanization at site selection Challenges and benefits of mechanizing vineyard training systems and retrofitting existing vineyards Importance of vineyard uniformity for successful mechanization Economic considerations and
podcast· 48:59· Ep 64064: Growing Grapes Around a World – Mexico with Alexandro Eguiarte & Francisco Verastegui
From the sun-drenched fields of Jalisco to the high-altitude terrains of Coahuila, Mexican winemakers like Alexandro Eguiarte of Viñedo Evangelista and Francisco Verastegui of Vinicola Refran Winery & Vineyard are leveraging the diverse conditions to produce distinctive wines that reflect the country's rich terroir. As the industry expands, it brings with it both opportunities and challenges that shape the future of viticulture in the region. Listen in to this conversation with Alexandro and Francisco and learn about the wine and grape growing industries in Mexico and how they have evolved over the past couple of decades. In this episode, you will hear: The evolution of grape growing in Mexico and the transition from brandy to tequila to wine The effect of tourism on grape growing in Mexico The climates in Jalisco and Coahuila and how they affect viticultural efforts Labor concerns and how to train workers effectively The challenges that come with growing grapes in these areas of Mexic
podcast· 1h 20m· Ep 63063: Pruning Wound Disease Myth Busting
When you grow up in the country with the most acreage of grapes, it only makes sense that you grow up to be a plant pathologist and research scientist in the world of viticulture. That was the case for Dr. José Ramón Úrbez-Torres. His studies took him from Spain to France, to California, and to Canada, where he studied under the best and gained valuable knowledge on grape growing and plant pathology. In this episode, we discuss pruning wound disease and bust some of the common myths surrounding the topic. In this episode, you will hear: The significance of regional conditions on pruning strategies. The role of xylem vessels in disease spread and cultivar susceptibility. The importance of timing in pruning to minimize spore infection risk. The effectiveness of biological controls in vineyard management. The impact of pre-pruning on disease management and whether protection is necessary. The influence of moisture and spore release on fungal infection rates in vineyards. Follow and Review
podcast· 56:23· Ep 62062: The Timing of Vineyard Management Tasks is Everything With Matt Doyle
Do you know what to prioritize in each stage of the growing season? In this episode, we broke down the priorities with vineyard management expert Matt Doyle based on the three main phases: bud burst through bloom, fruit set through veraison, and veraison through harvest. Listen in for a detailed overview of what growers should pay attention to during each stage for a successful growing season. In this episode, you will hear: Matt's journey from Cornell to California to owning Doyle Vineyard Management in the Finger Lakes region. Strategic diversification in vineyard operations, including leasing vineyards, selling grapes, and offering management services. Techniques for handling diverse grape varieties and seasonal challenges like spring frosts and mechanization. Planning and executing vineyard tasks from bud burst through harvest. Post-harvest strategies for maintaining vineyard health and productivity. Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click the '+
podcast· 59:29· Ep 61061: In the Vines since 1999
Since we are nearing the end of 2024, this episode is a light-hearted conversation between four viticulture friends. As some of you may know, I started my career in viticulture in 1999. Three of my friends also began their grape growing journey that same year: Erin Amaral, Paul Crout, and Randy Heinzen. In this episode, I'm joined by Erin, Paul, and Randy for a conversation about our experiences in the vineyard industry over the past 25 years. Listen in to this fun episode as we talk about how the industry has grown and changed and share our favorite stories over the last two and a half decades. In this episode, you will hear: What the viticulture industry used to be like back in 1999 What has changed in the past 25 years Technological advancements and research improvements What we can expect for the future of viticulture Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click the '+ Follow' button in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it eve
podcast· 40:54· Ep 60060: Expectations from a Custom Crush with Ryan Horn and Greg Stokes
Custom crush facilities are becoming a popular choice for grape growers who want to make wine without the hefty investment of building a full-scale winery. In this episode, industry experts Ryan Horn from Vintner's Vault and Greg Stokes from Ursa Vineyards and Bending Branch Winery share insights on this topic. Listen in for an overview of what a custom crush is, who it is for, and how much you can expect to pay per bottle of finished wine. In this episode, you will hear Advantages of custom crush facilities for grape growers Significance of custom crush services Supply and demand cycles in the grape industry and the role of custom crush facilities Traditional custom crush versus alternative proprietorships Logistics, legal considerations, and potential financial risks involved in custom crush operations Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click the '+ Follow' button in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you coul
podcast· 33:33· Ep 59059: Late Season Vineyard Management Considerations
Late season vineyard management is important for preparing your vineyard between harvest and dormancy, or whenever the ground freezes, depending on your location. In this episode, we cover each of the three main areas this period focuses on: compost application, vineyard floor management, and dormant season spraying. Listen in for late season vineyard management tips on composting, cover crops, and sprays. In this episode, you will hear: Benefits and considerations of using compost to improve soil structure and provide slow-release nutrients. Post-harvest fertilization tips, including nutrient timing and selection. Cover cropping for erosion prevention and soil health enhancement. Which cover crops to use and their benefits. Dormant spraying techniques to prevent fungal diseases and protect pruning wounds. Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click the '+ Follow' button in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you co
podcast· 25:09· Ep 58058: Top 5 Misheard Grape Growing Concepts
Ever wonder if removing leaves from young vines speeds up their growth? Spoiler alert: it doesn't. In this episode, we put five grape growing myths to bed and give you the clarity you need to nurture a thriving vineyard. Listen in to learn what the top five misheard grape growing concepts are – and find out if you are guilty of any of them. Whether you're a newbie grower or a seasoned pro, be prepared because your vineyard management practices might be turned on its head! In this episode, you will hear: What happens when you remove leaves off young vines The importance of mature leaves in carbohydrate production and young vine training Whether competition from undervine crops is a good or bad thing Strategic use of fertilizers and risks of excessive nitrogen and potassium Pruning tips: timing, pre-pruning, and managing labor efficiently Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click the '+ Follow' button in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. W
podcast· 1h 04m· Ep 57057: Modern Powdery Mildew Management with Dr. Michelle Moyer
In this episode, we have a conversation on modern powdery mildew management with an expert on the subject, Dr. Michelle Moyer. A plant pathologist by training, Dr. Moyer is a professor and viticulture extension specialist at Washington State University. She has worked on the East Coast and the West Coast, helping people understand disease and pest pressures in their vineyards. Although the pressures are different on each side of the country, the principles are the same. Whether you are new or experienced in grape growing, you will gain valuable information from this episode with Dr. Moyer. Listen in to learn about modern powdery mildew management so you can prevent an outbreak at your vineyard. In this episode, you will hear: What powdery mildew is and how it affects grape vines What grape varieties are commonly affected by mildew The effect of UV and UVB light on plants with powdery mildew Conventional, organic, and biological spray products What do you do if you get an outbreak of po
podcast· 51:06· Ep 56056: The Emergence & Success of the Virginia Wine Industry with Dr. Tony Wolf
The Virginia wine industry has experienced a phenomenal transformation over the past three decades, largely attributed to the efforts of dedicated individuals like Dr. Tony Wolf. From a mere six wineries in 1980, Virginia now boasts a $1.5 billion industry with over 300 wineries. In this episode, Dr. Wolf discusses what it was like when the wine industry began in Virginia in the 1980s, what challenges growers faced, and where they saw success. Listen in to learn how grape growing has become a booming industry over the past 30 years. In this episode, you will hear: The challenges Virginia grape growers faced in the 1980s. How Dr. Wolf impacted the wine industry in Virginia. The growth of canopy management practices, especially VSP. What makes vineyards successful in any location. What Dr. Wolf would tell himself 25 years ago. Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click the '+ Follow' button in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it
podcast· 34:39· Ep 55055: Managing Cold Climate Vineyards & Dealing with Cold Damaged Vines with Kevin Ker – Part 2
This episode is part two of our conversation with Kevin Ker of Brock University's Cool Climate Oenology and Viticulture Institute. We continue discussing cold climate vineyard management and how to help cold damaged vines thrive for years. Dr. Ker shares strategies for site establishment, seasonal management practices, and methods for assessing and renewing grapevines after winter damage. Join us for part two of our cold climate viticulture conversation and learn how to optimize your vineyard's health and productivity. In this episode, you will hear: Cold climate vineyard management fundamentals. Unique advantages of cold climate vineyards and handling cold-damaged vines. Techniques for vineyard renewal and fruitful pruning after winter freezes. Impact of extreme cold temperatures on vinifera and hybrid grape varieties. Various pruning strategies for vineyard recovery. Practical advice on sequential renewal and infrastructure reestablishment. Follow and Review: We'd love for you to fol
podcast· 55:59· Ep 54054: Managing Cold Climate Vineyards & Dealing with Cold Damaged Vines with Kevin Ker – Part 1
Growing grapes in a cold climate presents unique challenges that are often more about dealing with winter injury than the growing season itself. According to Dr. Kevin Ker from Brock University's Cool Climate Enology and Viticulture Institute, the temperatures outside the growing season are what set cold climate viticulture apart. Ensuring vines live for 25 years rather than just five to seven years involves strategies and practices specifically for harsh winter conditions. This episode is part one of our conversation with Dr. Ker. Listen in to learn about managing cold climate vineyards and cold damaged vines. In this episode, you will hear: How to establish a vineyard in cold climates and what the core principles of establishing a vineyard are Strategies for managing cold climate vineyards Impact of winter temperatures, growing degree days, and frost-free days on grape growing How to approach fertilization and nutrient management for cold climate vineyards Various pruning techniques
podcast· 54:16· Ep 53053: A Picture of Vineyard Sustainability with Niner Wine Estates
In this episode, we sit down with Andy Niner, President of Niner Wine Estates, and Craig Macmillan, their Critical Resource Manager, to discuss sustainable vineyard management. The episode covers innovative water and soil management techniques, including rainwater capture, advanced monitoring tools, composting, and mechanical weed management. We also go over pest and disease management and what records to keep. Tune in to learn about the economic considerations of sustainable practices, the importance of quality over yield, and tips on improving sustainability in your vineyard operations. In this episode, you will hear: Why choose the SIP certification How water management has evolved at Niner Wine Estates How to incorporate composting into your soil management Hands-on materials Niner Wine Estates uses for input What pest management looks like in a sustainable vineyard The importance of record keeping for your vineyard Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't y
podcast· 42:44· Ep 52052: Harvest Time Q&A
We are back with everyone's favorite kind of episode – a Q&A! This time, we are answering questions about harvest time. Questions came in from all over, including North Carolina, Oregon, Texas, and even Portugal. Listen in to learn about irrigation post-harvest, late-season strategies, issues with high titratable acidity, and more. As harvest season approaches, remember that we're here to provide valuable insights and support you as a grape grower. Enjoy the episode and happy harvesting! In this episode, you will hear: If and when to turn off water before harvest to concentrate sugars How much to irrigate post-harvest and before dormancy Products to use to control late-season downy mildew infections Late-season strategies for heat stress protection What to do about pale green vines after harvest What to do if your berries are splitting Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click the '+ Follow' button in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We
podcast· 1h 01m· Ep 51051: Learning from Vineyards and Wineries in the Emerging Arizona Wine Region
In this episode, we dive into Arizona's unique wine scene with a panel of guests: Todd Bostock of Dos Cabezas WineWorks, Kent Callaghan of Callaghan Vineyards, and Pavle Milic of Los Milics Vineyards. Arizona's vineyards face a unique set of challenges, including extreme shifts in weather, from scorching heat to freezing temperatures, alongside hail, monsoons, and droughts. Despite these difficulties, our guests share how certain varieties not only survive but thrive, producing outstanding wines that truly capture the essence of Arizona's diversity. In this episode, you will hear: The history of wine and grape growing in Arizona Where there was a momentum shift and Arizona wine began growing in popularity The difference in the Sonoita to Elgin and Wilcox to Elfrida areas The wine varieties our experts like to grow and those they decided not to replant The challenges of growing a vineyard in an Arizona climate Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click t
podcast· 1h 05m· Ep 50050: The Challenges and Successes of Growing Italian Cultivars Outside of Italy with Luca Paschina
In this episode, we have a conversation with Luca Paschina, the estate director and winemaker for Barboursville Vineyards in Virginia. A third-generation winemaker from Alba, Italy, Luca has worked in Italy, Switzerland, Spain, Napa, and the Finger Lakes before settling in Virginia, where he expanded Barboursville Vineyards from 38 to 180 acres. Integrating Italian, French, and other grape varieties and techniques, Luca discusses the challenges of growing Italian grapes like Nebbiolo, Barbera, and Moscato in Virginia's climate and his strategic vineyard management. In this episode, you will hear: Challenges and successes in cultivating Italian grape varieties like Moscato, Barbera, and Nebbiolo in Virginia. Techniques and strategies for vineyard management in Virginia's climate. The flagship wine of Barboursville Vineyards, Octagon, and its blends. The challenges of growing Italian white varietals like Vermentino, Fiano, and Falanghina. Comparisons of vineyard practices between Italy a
podcast· 32:53· Ep 49049: Midsummer Mismanagement in the Vineyard
In the cycle of vineyard management, every season brings its unique set of challenges and opportunities. As we navigate past fruit set but not quite at veraison, our focus should pivot to protecting and enhancing the quality of the fruit that is already on the vines. This period demands precise interventions to ensure the health and quality of our crops. In this episode, Fritz shares the six key areas of vineyard management that can easily go awry in this midsummer season and how to avoid those mistakes in your vineyard. Listen in to learn what not to do so you can have a thriving vineyard this summer. In this episode, you will hear: What improper canopy management looks like and how to hedge effectively What a "taco canopy" is and how to manage it The risk of summer sprays and alternatives to avoid burning plants The best time to add fertilizer (aka nitrogen) Why you shouldn't take off leaves with chlorosis The importance of controlling weeds early on Follow and Review: We'd love for